The GLBT community is in the process of great change. In the 35 years since Stonewall, our community has made huge strides forward establishing itself in society. Ironically, as we have carved out a clear public profile we have simultaneously lost track of one another. The GLBT community is broad and diverse, but in many respects we have splintered into factions whose paths rarely cross.

“Portrait of a community” aims to correct this imbalance by profiling the men and women who make up our community in an environment that describes him or her best. Additionally, each portrait includes a conversation about the substance of each individual’s life and how he or she views some of the cornerstones of his or her GLBT experience.

In time, the goal of this column is to create a complete and inclusive portrait of our community, one person at a time.

Name: Tom Kirkman

Age: 64

Self-definition: A creative, impulsive and honest person with a good sense of humor, and a good friend.

Where were you at 9:00 a.m. last Sunday morning?

I was finishing up breakfast before heading out to the Hillcrest City Fest.

What person has influenced you more than any other, and how?

My dad. With a limited education, he became a successful businessman and an airport executive. He was very supportive of the paths I chose in life. He was a caring and compassionate man, and a great role model.

When do you feel unequal?

I am equal. I am empowered to be more so when, from either within or from outside of our community, I am confronted with ageism, sexism or racism; or whenever I am told that I cannot share in the rights guaranteed to me because of who I am, either by the leaders of my church or of my government.

Where were you last Wednesday at noon?

I was at work at the SAGE Center, setting up for an afternoon activity program.

When was the last time you felt proud?

Participating in the Pride parade is always a proud moment. But the Friday night following Pride, at the rally against hate, was the last time I really felt proud. Surrounded by so many men and women of our community who really care – I was very aware that I was part of a family that would be there for me, or for anyone else who may fall victim to an attack for being who we are.

If there was a defining moment in your life, what was it?

My decision seven years ago to relocate to San Diego. It provided me with the opportunity to live and work in the LGBT community. It has been a rewarding experience and a means of self-growth. More importantly, it has given me the chance to work with some of the “pioneers” of our community and become part of their history.

Where were you at 10:00 p.m. last Friday night?

I was at the Prado restaurant with a friend enjoying appetizers, drinks and good conversation about the theater after attending San Diego Junior Theatre’s production of The Wiz.

What is your most immediate goal?

I would like to continue to work for as long as I can. After retiring, my goal is to become a volunteer with one of the local organizations that serve those in our community who are in need.

When do you feel total joy?

When I’m entertaining and when I’m with my friends. Also, on those evenings when I find myself “catching up” on reading the many books that still need to be read.

www.andrewprinter.com